Afrobeats sensation Rema is gearing up to release his latest single ‘Kelebu’ on August 1, 2025, and the buzz around the track has already divided listeners.
$10K for whoever come up with a EASY dance for KELEBU. out this Friday! pic.twitter.com/kkJKf0TAM3
— (@heisrema) July 27, 2025
In a bold creative pivot, Rema taps into Francophone pop, specifically Coupe Decale, infusing it with elements of Bongo Flava and Soukous, genres rooted in Central and East Africa. While Coupe Decale is famously represented by legends like Awilo Longomba, Rema’s version takes a different path.
On ‘Kelebu,’ he delivers rapid-fire rap verses in Pidgin English over an uptempo beat laced with energetic horns and bouncing drums. It’s a high-octane call to the dance floor that feels like a nod to the rage-filled energy of his sophomore album ‘HEIS’.
But reactions to the teaser have been mixed.
DJ Tunez, a respected figure in the music scene, took to X to question the sound of the track, a sentiment echoed by fans who think the experiment might not hit the mark. On the flip side, prominent music journalist Joey Akan hailed the upcoming single as a testament to Rema’s daring spirit and commitment to evolving his artistry.
No matter where you stand, one thing is clear: Rema is pushing boundaries. As one of Afrobeats’ most influential global ambassadors, his exploration of diverse African genres continues to spark conversation and sometimes, controversy.
To amplify the hype, Rema is offering $10,000 to the fan who can create the best and simplest dance challenge for the track, a move aimed at fueling social media virality and global engagement.
Whether ‘Kelebu’ becomes a summer anthem or a polarizing experiment, it’s yet another chapter in Rema’s ever-evolving musical journey.
